Tips for Dealing with a Roommate's Pet

When it comes time for two roommates to move in together, communication is the single most important aspect of getting along and establishing a happy home environment. Sometimes humans aren't the only ones who'll be sharing your place. A roommate with a pet can mean twice the fun. You can enjoy the company of a pet without the responsibility that comes along with it. However, there are some things that all roommates should consider before mutually sharing space with a pet.

New Roommate with a Pet

Befriend your roommate's pet from the start. How much time you spend with the pet depends on the relationship you have with your roommate. If your roommate likes to keep to herself and primarily sought a roommate for the help paying bills, respect the personal space by only approaching the pet when invited to do so. However, if your roommate becomes a friend, feel free to pay a lot of attention to her pet if she's cool with it. A pet's approval can help endear you to your human roommate as well.

Setting Boundaries

Realize that it's alright to say no. While you may share all the other chores of the house, it won't be your job to clean up after a pet that isn't your own. To save frustration along the way, make sure you clarify this from the start. If you're wondering how to approach the subject without sounding anxious from the start, you can simply ask, "What are you feelings on pet clean up?" The roommate is likely to explain that it's totally her responsibility, and you can refer back to that if conflict comes up later. However, if the roommate feels that she should have help in exchange for doing other house chores, let her know up front if it's something you're comfortable with accepting. Cleaning up a dirty litter box has to be one of the smelliest of chores.

Taking Care

Ask your roommate if the pet has any special needs. While you may take your roommate's dog on a city street thinking you're doing him a favor, he may have some issues that you never were told. A cat may only be able to handle the indoors, even if your cat loved going in and out. Always ask before feeding, walking or letting a pet outdoors. It's better to be too careful. Treat your roommate's pet better than you would your own.

When a Roommate Gets a New Pet

A roommate that respects you should let you know well in advance before introducing a pet into the household. He should ask for your approval before doing so unless there's an open pet rule in the roommate relationship. Give your honest input before a roommate gets a pet. If a roommate gets a pet suddenly because he had to rescue it or felt that he didn't want to risk your rejecting it, realize that you have choices. You can accept the situation and adapt as best you can, or you can fight it if there are no-pet stipulations in the lease. Most people try to adapt, especially in rescue situations.

Apartment Areas

Let your roommate know if you want your room to be off-limits for the pet. You also have the right to request that areas like the kitchen be off-limits to the pet. While this can be hard to enforce if it's an open area, you should always let your preferences known. There are several ways of letting a pet know that things are off-limits. One can simply keep doors closed or put up a safety gate to prevent an animal's crossing.

Resolving Conflicts

It's hard enough for two people to live together in harmony. Dilemmas are sure to come up when you've got a furry friend in the mix. When something bothers you, try not to speak about it when you are angry. Don't hold it in, either. Ask your roommate to set aside time for you to talk the very week that an issue occurs. When it comes time for that talk, think before you speak. For instance, if you are now leaving the house every day with cat hair all over you, you may start out the conversation by telling a funny story about how you realized the hair was on the back of your pants. Keeping yourself composed and sincere should set the tone for any conversation the two of you need to have.

In Closing

Remember that pets have feelings, too. If you ignore or yell at your friend's pet, he probably won't like you and may even fear you. This can alienate your roommate, not to mention that there's an animal hurting as well. Instead, treat your roommate's pet with respect. Never take out the frustration you may have with your roommate on her four-legged friend. Respect the pet as any other roommate that you need to get along with in order to live together.